In 1897, two prominent furniture companies, Heywood Brothers (est. 1826) and Wakefield Company (est. 1855) merged to create Heywood Brothers & Wakefield Company; the name would be shortened to Heywood‑Wakefield in 1921.

The new company rose to particular popularity in the 1930s, 40s, and 50s with its solid wood, Art Deco‑inspired mid‑century modern furniture.

B. W. Richardson